Light distribution structure and element, related method and uses
AssigneeNitto Denko Corporation
InventorKari Rinko
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Abstract
A light distribution structure 10 and a related element 100, such as a light guide, are provided. The structure 10 is preferably an optically functional layer comprising an at least one feature pattern 11, 11A established in a light-transmitting carrier by a plurality of three-dimensional optical features variable in terms of at least one of the cross-sectional profile, dimensions, periodicity, orientation and disposition thereof within the feature pattern. In some instances, the optical features are embodied as internal optical cavities 12 capable to establish the total internal reflection (TIR) function at a horizontal surface and at an essentially vertical surface thereof. A method for manufacturing the light distribution structure is further provided.
Claims28
A light distribution structure in the form of an optically functional layer, comprising:
- at least one three-dimensional feature pattern established in a light-transmitting carrier medium by a plurality of internal optical cavities,
- wherein each said optical cavity is configured to establish at least one optical function at its' horizontal surface and at its' inclined surface, the optical cavities being arranged in a direction along an essentially longitudinal light propagation path in the light-transmitting carrier medium,
- wherein
- by said horizontal surface the optical cavity is configured to mediate light propagation in the light-transmitting carrier medium along the essentially longitudinal light propagation path, and to further distribute light rays reflected from said horizontal surface, in the light-transmitting carrier medium, towards the inclined surface of the subsequent optical cavity of cavities via a plurality of light passage areas, and
- by said inclined surface the optical cavity is configured to extract light out of the structure in a predetermined direction essentially transverse to the longitudinal light propagation path, and
- wherein an edge of the inclined surface of each said optical cavity has a curved shape or a wave-shape when viewed along a normal to the horizontal surface.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.